As a new school year begins, it's vital to prioritize food safety when preparing and packing school lunches. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) provides four essential tips for parents and caregivers to achieve excellence in this critical aspect of their children's well-being.
Pass the Cleanliness Test
Start with impeccable hygiene. Surprisingly, a recent USDA study found that a mere 44% of participants attempted to wash their hands before meal preparation, and a meager 3% followed proper handwashing techniques. Earn top marks by:
Wetting hands with clean, running water and applying soap.
Lathering hands for a minimum of 20 seconds.
Thoroughly rinse hands under clean water.
Drying hands with a clean towel.
Separate for Safety
Avoid cross-contamination by keeping raw foods separate from ready-to-eat items during preparation. Use distinct cutting boards for each or meticulously sanitize a single board between uses. This simple practice is crucial to maintaining food safety.
Cook with Precision
Save time by cooking sufficient meat and poultry in advance for school lunches. However, relying on color or texture as indicators of doneness is risky. Instead, ensure safety by using a food thermometer to accurately gauge the internal temperature.
Chill to Thrive
Never leave perishable food unrefrigerated for more than two hours. The "Danger Zone" of temperatures between 40°F and 140°F provides an ideal breeding ground for harmful bacteria. Safely store leftovers in sealed containers or airtight packaging, dividing large portions into shallow containers to expedite cooling.
Ace the Lunch Packing Exam
Utilize insulated lunch boxes or containers to maintain food safety until lunchtime. For cold foods, include two cold sources such as frozen gel packs, juice boxes, or bottled water. Hot foods can be kept piping hot by preheating the insulated container with boiling water before adding the food.
Expand Your Food Safe Options
Non-perishable items offer reliable alternatives. opt for pre-packaged, shelf-stable meals, whole or dried fruits, vegetables like baby carrots or cherry tomatoes, hard cheeses, grains such as bread and crackers, and jerky for safe and nutritious additions to school lunches.
By adhering to these food safety principles, parents and caregivers can ensure their children's well-being throughout the school year. For further assistance, contact the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline. Don't leave food safety to chance—make it a priority for a successful and healthy school year.
Source : wisconsinagconnection